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Beaches for Wildlife and Coastal Nature

Wildlife encounters are never guaranteed, and the best visit gives animals and habitats plenty of space. These guides point toward nature-rich settings; check the latest rules from the relevant park or local authority.

Wildlife encounters are never guaranteed, and the best visit gives animals and habitats plenty of space. These guides point toward nature-rich settings; check the latest rules from the relevant park or local authority.

Observe without disturbing

Keep a generous distance from wildlife, never feed animals and follow marked routes. Seasonal closures or viewing rules may be in place to protect nesting, resting or feeding areas. Use a local guide where required.

Understand the habitat

From penguin colonies and reefs to dunes and island reserves, each coast has different pressures. Avoid stepping on vegetation or coral, take all waste with you and choose operators that follow conservation guidance.

EXPLORE THE BEACHES

Shortlist for your next beach day

Use these guides to compare beach character and find details for each destination.

Illustrative coastal photograph for a beach guideSouth Africa · Africa & Indian Ocean

Boulders Beach

A sheltered False Bay beach known for its resident African penguins and enormous granite boulders. Boardwalks let visitors observe the colony while helping protect its habitat.

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Illustrative coastal photograph for a beach guideU.S. Virgin Islands · Caribbean

Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge

A pristine sweep of sand at the western tip of St Croix, protected for nesting sea turtles and other wildlife. Access is limited, preserving its untouched character.

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Illustrative coastal photograph for a beach guideUnited States · North America

Hanauma Bay

A volcanic crater flooded by the sea, with a protected reef and remarkable snorkelling close to Honolulu. Entry is managed; visitors must follow conservation guidance and current reservation rules.

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Illustrative coastal photograph for a beach guideAustralia · Oceania

Turquoise Bay

A reef-fringed beach in Ningaloo Marine Park where a gentle current can carry snorkellers along coral close to shore. The vivid colour of the water lives up to its name.

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Illustrative coastal photograph for a beach guideSeychelles · Africa & Indian Ocean

Anse Source d'Argent

A world-famous La Digue shoreline where pale sand winds between enormous pink granite boulders. Shallow water, palms and sculptural rocks make this a striking Indian Ocean scene.

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Illustrative coastal photograph for a beach guideAustralia · Oceania

Wineglass Bay

A near-perfect curve of pale sand and clear water in Tasmania's Freycinet National Park. Reach the famous lookout on foot, then continue down to the quiet shore.

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Illustrative coastal photograph for a beach guideThailand · Asia

Maya Bay

A spectacular enclosed bay on Phi Phi Leh, framed by steep limestone cliffs. Access is managed to protect the recovering ecosystem; check current park rules before visiting.

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